Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately all too common, and the consequences can be devastating. If you live in Buffalo and have been in a motorcycle accident, you may be wondering how insurance works in these situations. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of motorcycle insurance in Buffalo and how it can help you after an accident.
First, it’s important to note that motorcycle insurance works similarly to car insurance in Buffalo. All drivers in New York State are required to have liability insurance, which covers bodily injury and property damage for
the other party in an accident that you’re at fault for. This means that if you cause a motorcycle accident, your liability insurance will cover the costs of the other person’s injuries and damage to their property, up to the limits of your policy.
In addition to liability insurance, there are several other types of coverage that can be included in a motorcycle insurance policy in Buffalo. These include:
- Collision coverage: This covers damage to your own motorcycle in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
- Comprehensive coverage: This covers damage to your motorcycle from non-collision events, such as theft, vandalism, or weather-related damage.
- Medical payments coverage: This covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: This covers you if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages.
It’s important to note that motorcycle insurance policies can vary widely in terms of the coverage they offer and the limits of that coverage. If you’re a motorcycle rider in Buffalo, it’s a good idea to talk to an insurance agent who specializes in motorcycle insurance to make sure you have the right coverage for your needs.
So what happens if you’re in a motorcycle accident in Buffalo? If you’re at fault for the accident, your liability insurance will cover the other party’s injuries and property damage up to the limits of your policy. If you have collision coverage, your own motorcycle will also be covered. If the other party is at fault and has liability insurance, their insurance should cover your damages.
If the other party doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can kick in. This coverage can also be helpful if you’re in a hit-and-run accident and can’t identify the other driver.
After a motorcycle accident, it’s important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and start the claims process. You’ll need to provide information about the accident, including the other party’s information if possible. Your insurance company will investigate the accident and determine who is at fault.
It’s also important to note that New York State follows a “no-fault” insurance system for car accidents, but this doesn’t apply to motorcycle accidents. In a no-fault system, each party’s insurance company pays for their own medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. However, this doesn’t apply to motorcycle accidents, which are treated like any other type of vehicle accident.
In addition to insurance coverage, there are other important steps to take after a motorcycle accident in Buffalo. These include:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel okay after the accident, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
- Gather information: Get the other party’s contact information, insurance information, and the contact information of any witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene and any damage to your motorcycle.
- File a police report: If the accident caused more than $1,000 in damage or someone was injured, you’re required to file a police report. Even if the damage is less than $1,000, it’s still a good idea to file a report.
- Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer: If you were injured in the accident, it’s a good idea to contact a lawyer who specializes in motorcycle accidents. They can help you navigate the insurance claims process and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
Motorcycle insurance works similarly to car insurance in Buffalo, with liability insurance being required by law. Other types of coverage can provide additional protection. After a motorcycle accident, it’s important to contact your insurance company and take other important steps like seeking medical attention, gathering information, and contacting a lawyer if necessary.
As a law firm specializing in personal injury cases, including motorcycle accidents, we at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC can provide legal assistance and guidance to those who have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Buffalo. We can investigate the accident, communicate with insurance companies, negotiate a settlement, represent you in court, and help you understand your insurance coverage. Our attorneys can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to determine who was at fault and to gather evidence to support your claim. We can also communicate with insurance companies on your behalf to make sure your rights are protected, and negotiate with them to try to reach a settlement that provides fair compensation for your injuries and damages. In case a settlement can’t be reached, our attorneys can represent you in court and fight for your rights in front of a judge or jury. Finally, we can help you understand your motorcycle insurance policy and make sure you’re getting the coverage you need.